Legal

"Legal" means permitted by, or relating to, the law. A legal act is one the law allows or does not prohibit; a legal right or obligation is one the law recognizes and enforces. It is a general word rather than a defined legal term.

How BC law treats it

In BC, what is legal depends on federal and provincial statutes, regulations, municipal bylaws and the common law. Something can be legal in one setting and require a licence, permit or consent in another.

What it means for your business

A BC business should not assume an activity is lawful simply because it is common in its industry.

Risks and common mistakes

Overlooking a licensing or permit requirement can make an otherwise ordinary activity unlawful.

Browse the full Fulcrum Law Dictionary for related terms.

General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.